Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe

Imagine waking up to the sizzling aroma of crispy, golden fried chicken paired with fluffy, buttery waffles—the ultimate Southern comfort on a single plate. This Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe captures everything there is to love about soulful home cooking, from the tang of buttermilk-marinated chicken to the hint of sweetness in every bite of waffle. With its bold flavors, crunchy textures, and that irresistible drizzle of spicy honey butter, this dish is the kind of satisfying meal that will have your taste buds celebrating at breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the essentials for this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each ingredient has been carefully chosen not just for tradition’s sake, but for the unique taste, texture, and color it brings to the party—a true showcase of how simple pantry staples can create something extraordinary.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness, or breasts for a lighter bite.
• Buttermilk: This gives the chicken a tender texture and classic Southern tang.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the waffle batter.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to every layer of flavor.
• Garlic powder: Brings a gentle savoriness to the chicken.
• Paprika: Lends a warm color and mild smokiness.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): Use for an extra fiery note, if you like things spicy!
• All-purpose flour: Key for both crispy coating on the chicken and light, fluffy waffles.
• Cornstarch: Blended with flour, it delivers a crunchier chicken crust.
• Oil for frying: Vegetable or canola oil for high-heat, even frying.
• Sugar: Sweetens up the waffle batter for contrast against the chicken.
• Baking powder: Ensures your waffles rise up tall and tender.
• Eggs: Give structure and richness to waffles.
• Milk: Keeps the waffle batter moist and creamy.
• Melted butter: Adds irresistible flavor to both waffles and the honey butter sauce.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the waffles with warmth and depth.
• Honey (or maple syrup): Sweet and sticky, perfect for that signature drizzle.
• Hot sauce: Dial up the heat in your honey butter sauce to match your mood.
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): For a little extra spice in the sauce.

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

First things first: infuse maximum juiciness into your chicken! Combine buttermilk with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of cayenne if you’re after that fiery Southern flair. Submerge the chicken pieces in this savory bath and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—though if you can wait overnight, the payoff in tenderness and flavor is unbeatable.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Once your chicken is flavorful and ready, mix together all-purpose flour and cornstarch. This blend is the secret weapon for that crave-worthy crunch—cornstarch keeps the coating extra crispy. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure every nook and cranny gets a good layer.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat your oil over medium-high heat in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven until shimmering (about 350°F is perfect). Fry the chicken pieces for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until they’re gorgeously golden and have an internal temperature of 165°F. Let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to keep them crisp while you work your waffle magic!

Step 4: Make the Waffle Batter

In one bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; in another, combine eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla for that rich, aromatic base. Gently fold wet into dry ingredients—remember, lumpy batter means fluffier waffles. Let the mix rest while your waffle iron heats up.

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Get your waffle iron ready and scoop in enough batter to just cover the grid. Cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions until each waffle is golden brown and crisp. The aroma of vanilla and butter wafting through your kitchen is truly irresistible at this stage.

Step 6: Make the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), melted butter, hot sauce, and a pinch of cayenne. Adjust the heat and sweetness exactly to your liking. It’s this saucy upgrade that ties the whole Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe together in the most delectable way.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Now for the fun part! Place a hot, crisp waffle onto each plate and crown it with a piece of freshly fried chicken. Drizzle generously with your spicy honey butter sauce, letting it soak into the nooks and crannies. Dig in while everything is hot and fresh for the full experience!

How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe

Garnishes

Amp up the beauty with a scattering of freshly chopped chives, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a dusting of paprika right before serving. Add a dollop of extra honey butter on the side, or top with a few sweet pickled jalapeños for a colorful pop and zing.

Side Dishes

Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe pairs well with buttery grits, fresh fruit salad, creamy coleslaw, or even roasted greens. If you’re serving brunch, consider a fruit compote or extra maple syrup in small pitchers so everyone can customize their plates.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack mini-waffles with chicken bites for brunch sliders, serve waffles and chicken pieces family-style, or get playful with layered “towers” for an eye-catching effect. Kids (and adults!) love any excuse to dip crispy chicken into extra sauce or syrup, so set up a little DIY bar with toppings to make it interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover chicken and waffles cool completely before storing in separate airtight containers—this keeps each component fresh and avoids sogginess. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, and keep the honey butter sauce handy in a small jar for quick drizzling.

Freezing

Both the chicken and waffles freeze beautifully! Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, ready to be reheated straight from the freezer for an impromptu Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe feast.

Reheating

Reheat waffles in a toaster or oven to restore their crispy exterior, and warm chicken in the oven or air fryer for that just-fried crunch. Microwave reheating can make everything a bit soft, so stick to the oven for the best textures. Warm your honey butter sauce slightly and drizzle over everything before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work beautifully if you prefer a leaner cut, just be sure to monitor the cook time closely as they can dry out faster than thighs. The buttermilk marinade in this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe helps keep either cut nice and juicy.

What’s the best oil for frying the chicken?

Go for a neutral, high-smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil. Peanut oil also works well, imparting a slightly nutty undertone that’s perfect for classic fried chicken.

Can I make the waffles gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour—just be sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the right structure. The rest of the Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe stays delightfully the same.

How spicy is the honey butter sauce?

It’s as spicy as you want it to be! Start with a little hot sauce and a pinch of cayenne and build from there. Add more if you’re feeling bold, or keep it mild for a sweeter finish—totally your call.

Can I prepare this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely—both components reheat well. Prepare the elements in advance and keep them wrapped up tight. Re-crisp chicken and waffles in the oven just before serving, and make the honey butter sauce in advance for a quick, decadent finishing touch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both heartwarming and full of wow-factor, this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe delivers every single time. Classic Southern tradition, a playful twist, and an explosion of flavors await—gather your favorite people and treat them to a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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